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Advances in Multifunctional Polymer-Matrix Composites
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Advances in Multifunctional Polymer-Matrix Composites

A special issue of Polymers (ISSN 2073-4360). This special issue belongs to the section "Polymer Composites and Nanocomposites".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 January 2022) | Viewed by 46372

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Giulia Fredi

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Industrial Engineering and INSTM Research Unit, University of Trento, 38123 Trento, Italy
Interests: biopolymers; bioplastics; polymer characterization; thermal energy storage; anionic polyamide 6; thermoplastic composites
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Polymer composites combine the lightness and toughness of a polymer matrix with the unique properties of the discontinuous phase(s). The resulting material often exhibits high specific mechanical properties, thereby featuring inherent engineering advantages in applications such as automotive, aerospace, and constructions. Being constituted of multiple phases, polymer–matrix composites are also the ideal materials to be designed as multifunctional, thus performing multiple functions simultaneously and responding to stimuli of different nature. Multifunctionality is beneficial especially in applications that require weight minimization in combination with other mechanical and functional properties, such as optical, self-healing, antibacterial, and shape-memory properties, energy storage and conversion, thermal regulation, electrical or thermal conductivity, wear and corrosion resistance, sensing and actuating ability, and biocompatibility.

The area of multifunctional polymer–matrix composites is exciting and rapidly developing, and therefore, this Special Issue aims at highlighting the main research lines of the field, evidencing the latest and most promising approaches, and delineating future trends on which the efforts of the scientific community are likely to focus.

This Special Issue welcomes original research and review articles in the field of multifunctional polymer–matrix composites and nanocomposites covering the design, processing, characterization, theoretical approaches, and numerical modeling of these materials. Research presenting substantial advancements in high-end sectors, such as the automotive, aerospace, constructions, biomedical, and electronics fields, is particularly welcome.

Dr. Giulia Fredi
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Polymers is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • Composites for energy storage
  • Self-healing composites
  • Self-sensing composites
  • Multifunctional interfaces
  • Optical properties of polymer composites
  • Biobased and biodegradable composites
  • Polymer composites with antibacterial properties
  • (Nano)composites for CO2 storage and conversion
  • Composites with electric, dielectric, and magnetic properties
  • Composites for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding
  • Testing multifunctional properties of polymer composites
  • Shape-memory composites
  • Hierarchical materials for biological and structural applications

Published Papers (17 papers)

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Research

13 pages, 6090 KiB  
Article
Effects of Thermal Activation on CNT Nanocomposite Electrical Conductivity and Rheology
by Joel Hubbard, Joaquin Tirano, Hugo Zea and Claudia Luhrs
Polymers 2022, 14(5), 1003; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym14051003 - 02 Mar 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2004
Abstract
Carbon-based nanocomposites featuring enhanced electrical properties have seen increased adoption in applications involving electromagnetic interference shielding and electrostatic dissipation. As the commercialization of these materials grows, a thorough understanding of how thermal activation affects the rheology and electrical performance of CNT–epoxy blends can [...] Read more.
Carbon-based nanocomposites featuring enhanced electrical properties have seen increased adoption in applications involving electromagnetic interference shielding and electrostatic dissipation. As the commercialization of these materials grows, a thorough understanding of how thermal activation affects the rheology and electrical performance of CNT–epoxy blends can inform quality decisions throughout the production process. The aim of this work was the identification of the effects that thermal activation has on the electrical and rheological properties of uncured epoxy mixtures and how those may be tied to the resulting cured composites. Herein, three distinct CNT-loaded composite mixtures were characterized for changes in electrical resistivity and viscosity resulting from varying activation times. Electrical conductivity decreased as activation time increased. Uncured mixture viscosity exhibited a strong dependence on CNT loading and applied strain, with activation time being found to significantly reduce the viscosity of the uncured mixture and surface profile of cured composite films. In all cases, cured composites featured improved electrical conductivity over the uncured mixtures. Factors contributing to the observed behavior are discussed. Raman analysis, optical microscopy of CNT networks, and data from silica bead mixing and dispersion studies are presented to contextualize the results. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Multifunctional Polymer-Matrix Composites)
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15 pages, 2090 KiB  
Article
Reversible Photo-Induced Reshaping of Imprinted Microstructures Using a Low Molecular Azo Dye
by Burhan Kaban, Sekvan Bagatur, Marcus Soter, Hartmut Hillmer and Thomas Fuhrmann-Lieker
Polymers 2022, 14(3), 586; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym14030586 - 31 Jan 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2406
Abstract
A blend of low molecular azo glass (AZOPD) and polystyrene (PS) were used for the systematic investigation of photo-induced stretching and recovery of nanoimprinted structures. For this purpose, light and heat was used as recovery stimuli. The AZOPD/PS microstructures, fabricated with thermal nanoimprint [...] Read more.
A blend of low molecular azo glass (AZOPD) and polystyrene (PS) were used for the systematic investigation of photo-induced stretching and recovery of nanoimprinted structures. For this purpose, light and heat was used as recovery stimuli. The AZOPD/PS microstructures, fabricated with thermal nanoimprint lithography (tNIL), comprises three different shapes (circles, crosses and squares) and various concentrations of AZOPD fractions. The results show a concentration-dependent reshaping. Particularly the sample with 43 w-% of the AZOPD fraction have shown the best controllable recovery for the used parameters. A possible explanation for shape recovery might be the stabilizing effect of the PS-matrix. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Multifunctional Polymer-Matrix Composites)
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13 pages, 3051 KiB  
Article
Preparation and Property of Bio-Polyimide/Halloysite Nanocomposite Based on 2,5-Furandicarboxylic Acid
by Yingxia Chen, Shuya Fan, Xibin Yi, Bing Li, Shiwei Chen, Shuyu Liu, Tao Hu and Si Chen
Polymers 2021, 13(23), 4057; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13234057 - 23 Nov 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1639
Abstract
Bio-based polyimide (PI)/halloysite nanotube (HNT) nanocomposites based on 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid were prepared by in situ polymerization. The pristine HNTs were modified by tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) and 4,4′-oxybisbenzenamine (ODA). The bio-based PI/HNT nanocomposite film exhibited lower moisture absorption than pure bio-based polyimide, showing that the [...] Read more.
Bio-based polyimide (PI)/halloysite nanotube (HNT) nanocomposites based on 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid were prepared by in situ polymerization. The pristine HNTs were modified by tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) and 4,4′-oxybisbenzenamine (ODA). The bio-based PI/HNT nanocomposite film exhibited lower moisture absorption than pure bio-based polyimide, showing that the water resistance of the bio-based polyimide film was improved. The thermal stability and glass transition temperature (Tg) of PI/HNTs nanocomposites were improved with the addition of modified HNTs. Both the tensile strength and Young’s modulus of bio-based PI/HNTs nanocomposite films were enhanced. A 37.7% increase in tensile strength and a 75.1% increase in Young’s modulus of bio-based PI/HNTs nanocomposite films, with 1 wt% of the modified HNTs, were achieved. The result confirmed that 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid could replace the oil-based material effectively, thus reducing pollution and protecting the environment. Finally, a preparation mechanism to prepare bio-based PI/HNTs nanocomposite is proposed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Multifunctional Polymer-Matrix Composites)
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9 pages, 2234 KiB  
Communication
Rearranged Copolyurea Networks for Selective Carbon Dioxide Adsorption at Room Temperature
by Junsik Nam, Eunkyung Jeon, Su-Young Moon and Ji-Woong Park
Polymers 2021, 13(22), 4004; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13224004 - 19 Nov 2021
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1533
Abstract
Copolyurea networks (co-UNs) were synthesized via crosslinking polymerization of a mixture of tetrakis(4-aminophenyl)methane (TAPM) and melamine with hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) using the organic sol-gel polymerization method. The subsequent thermal treatment of between 200 and 400 °C induced the sintering of the powdery polyurea [...] Read more.
Copolyurea networks (co-UNs) were synthesized via crosslinking polymerization of a mixture of tetrakis(4-aminophenyl)methane (TAPM) and melamine with hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) using the organic sol-gel polymerization method. The subsequent thermal treatment of between 200 and 400 °C induced the sintering of the powdery polyurea networks to form porous frameworks via urea bond rearrangement and the removal of volatile hexamethylene moieties. Incorporating melamine into the networks resulted in a higher nitrogen content and micropore ratio, whereas the overall porosity decreased with the melamine composition. The rearranged network composed of the tetraamine/melamine units in an 80:20 ratio showed the highest carbon dioxide adsorption quantity at room temperature. The results show that optimizing the chemical structure and porosity of polyurea-based networks can lead to carbon dioxide adsorbents working at elevated temperatures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Multifunctional Polymer-Matrix Composites)
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16 pages, 2582 KiB  
Article
Adsorption, Equilibrium Isotherm, and Thermodynamic Studies towards the Removal of Reactive Orange 16 Dye Using Cu(I)-Polyaninile Composite
by Prasanna Kumar Obulapuram, Tanvir Arfin, Faruq Mohammad, Sachin K. Khiste, Murthy Chavali, Aisha N. Albalawi and Hamad A. Al-Lohedan
Polymers 2021, 13(20), 3490; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13203490 - 11 Oct 2021
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 1949
Abstract
To overcome some of the limitations of activated carbon like efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and reusability, the present work deals with Cu(I)-based polyaniline (PANI) composite for the removal of reactive orange 16 (RO16) dye. Following the synthesis and characterization of formed Cu(I)-PANI composite, the batch [...] Read more.
To overcome some of the limitations of activated carbon like efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and reusability, the present work deals with Cu(I)-based polyaniline (PANI) composite for the removal of reactive orange 16 (RO16) dye. Following the synthesis and characterization of formed Cu(I)-PANI composite, the batch experiments performed for the removal of RO16 dye indicated that the composite has the capacity to reduce the coloring from RO16. The experiments were conducted for the study of effects against changes in pH, time, and dose at room temperature, where we observed for a pH impact on the dye adsorption capacity in the range of 2–12. Among all, the optimal RO16 removal was found to be 94.77% at a pH of 4 and in addition, the adsorption kinetics confirmed to be pseudo-second-order with more suitability towards the Langmuir isotherm, where it is presumed to be the formation of a monolayer of dye molecule at the homogeneous absorbent surface. The calculated maximum capacity, qm, determined from the Langmuir model was 392.156 mg/g. Further application of isotherms to attain thermodynamic parameters, a slight positive value of ΔS° for RO16 adsorption was observed, meaning that there is an increased randomness in the irregular pattern at the specific Cu(I)-PANI interface for an adsorption process. This mechanism plays an essential role in maintaining the effects of water pollution; and, based on the analysis therefore, it is prominent that the Cu(I)-PANI composite can be employed as a promising and economical adsorbent for the treatment of RO16 and other dye molecules from the sewage in wastewater. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Multifunctional Polymer-Matrix Composites)
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16 pages, 3065 KiB  
Article
Evaluating the Multifunctional Performance of Structural Composites for Thermal Energy Storage
by Giulia Fredi, Andrea Dorigato, Luca Fambri and Alessandro Pegoretti
Polymers 2021, 13(18), 3108; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13183108 - 15 Sep 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2226
Abstract
The simultaneous need for high specific mechanical properties and thermal energy storage (TES) function, present in several applications (e.g., electric vehicles), can be effectively addressed by multifunctional polymer-matrix composites containing a reinforcing agent and a phase change material (PCM). The PCMs generally decrease [...] Read more.
The simultaneous need for high specific mechanical properties and thermal energy storage (TES) function, present in several applications (e.g., electric vehicles), can be effectively addressed by multifunctional polymer-matrix composites containing a reinforcing agent and a phase change material (PCM). The PCMs generally decrease the mechanical properties of the host structural composites, but a multifunctional composite can still be beneficial in terms of mass saving, compared to two monofunctional units performing the structural and heat management functions individually. To quantify any possible advantages, this paper proposes an approach that determines the conditions for an effective mass saving at the system level and ranks the investigated structural TES composites with a parameter called multifunctional efficiency. It is found that the potential mass saving is higher when the volume fraction of the reinforcement is kept constant also when the PCM fraction increases or when the single phases (reinforcement, PCM) are themselves multifunctional. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Multifunctional Polymer-Matrix Composites)
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15 pages, 3839 KiB  
Article
Mechanical Behaviour of Multifunctional Epoxy/Hollow Glass Microspheres/Paraffin Microcapsules Syntactic Foams for Thermal Management
by Francesco Galvagnini, Giulia Fredi, Andrea Dorigato, Luca Fambri and Alessandro Pegoretti
Polymers 2021, 13(17), 2896; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13172896 - 27 Aug 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1997
Abstract
Epoxy/hollow glass microsphere (HGM) syntactic foams (SFs) are peculiar materials developed to combine low density, low thermal conductivity, and elevated mechanical properties. In this work, multifunctional SFs endowed with both structural and thermal management properties were produced for the first time, by combining [...] Read more.
Epoxy/hollow glass microsphere (HGM) syntactic foams (SFs) are peculiar materials developed to combine low density, low thermal conductivity, and elevated mechanical properties. In this work, multifunctional SFs endowed with both structural and thermal management properties were produced for the first time, by combining an epoxy matrix with HGM and a microencapsulated phase change material (PCM) having a melting temperature of 43 °C. Systems with a total filler content (HGM + PCM) up to 40 vol% were prepared and characterized from the mechanical point of view with a broad experimental campaign comprising quasi-static, impact, and fracture toughness tests. The experimental results were statistically treated and fitted with a linear model, to produce ternary phase diagrams to provide a comprehensive interpretation of the mechanical behaviour of the prepared foams. In quasi-static tests, HGM introduction helps to retain the specific tensile elastic modulus and to increase the specific compressive modulus. The brittle nature of HGMs decreases the Charpy impact properties of the SFs, while the PCM insertion improve their toughness. This result is confirmed in KIC and GIC tests, where the composition with 20 vol% of PCM shows an increase of 80% and 370% in KIC and GIC in to neat epoxy, respectively. The most promising compositions are those combining PCM and HGMs with a total particle volume fraction up to 40 vol%, thanks to their optimal combination of thermal management capability, lightness, thermal insulation, and mechanical properties. The ability to fine-tune the properties of the SFs, together with the acquired thermal energy storage (TES) capability, confirm the great potential of these multifunctional materials in automotive, electronics, and aerospace industries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Multifunctional Polymer-Matrix Composites)
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21 pages, 4876 KiB  
Article
Thermal Mending of Electroactive Carbon/Epoxy Laminates Using a Porous Poly(ε-caprolactone) Electrospun Mesh
by Roberto Cescato, Daniele Rigotti, Haroon Mahmood, Andrea Dorigato and Alessandro Pegoretti
Polymers 2021, 13(16), 2723; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13162723 - 14 Aug 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2371
Abstract
For the first time, a porous mesh of poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) was electrospun directly onto carbon fiber (CF) plies and used to develop novel structural epoxy (EP) composites with electro-activated self-healing properties. Three samples, i.e., the neat EP/CF composite and two laminates containing a [...] Read more.
For the first time, a porous mesh of poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) was electrospun directly onto carbon fiber (CF) plies and used to develop novel structural epoxy (EP) composites with electro-activated self-healing properties. Three samples, i.e., the neat EP/CF composite and two laminates containing a limited amount of PCL (i.e., 5 wt.% and 10 wt.%), were prepared and characterized from a microstructural and thermo-mechanical point of view. The introduction of the PCL mesh led to a reduction in the flexural stress at break (by 17%), of the interlaminar shear strength (by 15%), and of the interlaminar shear strength (by 39%). The interlaminar fracture toughness of the prepared laminates was evaluated under mode I, and broken samples were thermally mended at 80 °C (i.e., above the melting temperature of PCL) by resistive heating generated by a current flow within the samples through Joule’s effect. It was demonstrated that, thanks to the presence of the electrospun PCL mesh, the laminate with a PCL of 10 wt.% showed healing efficiency values up to 31%. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Multifunctional Polymer-Matrix Composites)
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14 pages, 6175 KiB  
Article
Effect of the Two-Dimensional Magnetostrictive Fillers of CoFe2O4-Intercalated Graphene Oxide Sheets in 3-2 Type Poly(vinylidene fluoride)-Based Magnetoelectric Films
by Geunryeol Baek and Su-Chul Yang
Polymers 2021, 13(11), 1782; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13111782 - 28 May 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2389
Abstract
In the last decade, magnetoelectric (ME) polymer films have been developed by including zero-dimensional or one-dimensional magnetostrictive fillers in a piezoelectric polymer matrix. Existing reports on ME polymer films reveal that the shape of the magnetostrictive fillers is a critical determinant of the [...] Read more.
In the last decade, magnetoelectric (ME) polymer films have been developed by including zero-dimensional or one-dimensional magnetostrictive fillers in a piezoelectric polymer matrix. Existing reports on ME polymer films reveal that the shape of the magnetostrictive fillers is a critical determinant of the polymeric phase conformation, strain transfer between the piezoelectric and magnetostrictive phases, and dipole alignment in the films. In this study, to investigate the effect of two-dimensional (2D) magnetostrictive fillers on piezoelectric, magnetic, and magnetoelectric responses, 3-2 type ME films were prepared using CoFe2O4-intercalated graphene oxide (CFO-i-GO) fillers and poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) polymers. The 2D fillers of CFO-i-GO were hydrothermally synthesized by CFO intercalation into the interlayers of GO sheets with different lateral sizes, which were controlled by ultrasonication treatment. It was found that the large-lateral-size GO (LGO), medium-lateral-size GO (MGO), and small-lateral-size GO (SGO) fillers in the PVDF-based ME films exhibited a lateral size effect on CFO intercalation, polymeric phase conformation, dipole alignment, and magnetoelectric responses. A maximum ME coefficient (αME) of 3.0 mV/cm∙Oe was achieved with a strong linearity (r2) of 0.9992 at an off-resonance frequency (f) of 1 kHz and applied direct current (dc) magnetic field (Hdc) of ± 1000 Oe. The 3-2 type polymer-based ME films with reliable ME responses have potential for use in high-feasibility ME devices for biomedical sensing applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Multifunctional Polymer-Matrix Composites)
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17 pages, 6333 KiB  
Article
Numerical Study Using Microstructure Based Finite Element Modeling of the Onset of Convective Heat Transfer in Closed-Cell Polymeric Foam
by Jorge-Enrique Rivera-Salinas, Karla-Monzerratt Gregorio-Jáuregui, Heidi-Andrea Fonseca-Florido, Carlos-Alberto Ávila-Orta, Eduardo Ramírez-Vargas, José-Antonio Romero-Serrano, Alejandro Cruz-Ramírez, Víctor-Hugo Gutierréz-Pérez, Seydy-Lizbeth Olvera-Vazquez and Lucero Rosales-Marines
Polymers 2021, 13(11), 1769; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13111769 - 28 May 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1974
Abstract
The thermal performance of closed-cell foams as an insulation device depends on the thermal conductivity. In these systems, the heat transfer mode associated with the convective contribution is generally ignored, and studies are based on the thermo-physical properties that emerge from the conductive [...] Read more.
The thermal performance of closed-cell foams as an insulation device depends on the thermal conductivity. In these systems, the heat transfer mode associated with the convective contribution is generally ignored, and studies are based on the thermo-physical properties that emerge from the conductive contribution, while others include a term for radiative transport. The criterion found in the literature for disregarding convective heat flux is the cell diameter; however, the cell size for which convection is effectively suppressed has not been clearly disclosed, and it is variously quoted in the range 3–10 mm. In practice, changes in thermal conductivity are also attributed to the convection heat transfer mode; hence, natural convection in porous materials is worthy of research. This work extends the field of study of conjugate heat transfer (convection and conduction) in cellular materials using microstructure-based finite element analysis. For air-based insulating materials, the criteria to consider natural convection (Ra=103) is met by cavities with sizes of 9.06 mm; however, convection is developed into several cavities despite their sizes being lower than 9.06 mm, hence, the average pore size that can effectively suppress the convective heat transfer is 6.0 mm. The amount of heat transported by convection is about 20% of the heat transported by conduction within the foam in a Ra=103, which, in turn, produces an increasing average of the conductivity of about 4.5%, with respect to a constant value. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Multifunctional Polymer-Matrix Composites)
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16 pages, 1718 KiB  
Article
Synthesis of Polymer-Based Magnetic Nanocomposite for Multi-Pollutants Removal from Water
by Fatimah Mohammed Alzahrani, Norah Salem Alsaiari, Khadijah Mohammedsaleh Katubi, Abdelfattah Amari, Faouzi Ben Rebah and Mohamed A. Tahoon
Polymers 2021, 13(11), 1742; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13111742 - 26 May 2021
Cited by 36 | Viewed by 2708
Abstract
A magnetic polymer-based nanocomposite was fabricated by the modification of an Fe3O4/SiO2 magnetic composite with polypyrrole (PPy) via co-precipitation polymerization to form PPy/Fe3O4/SiO2 for the removal of Congo red dye (CR) and hexavalent [...] Read more.
A magnetic polymer-based nanocomposite was fabricated by the modification of an Fe3O4/SiO2 magnetic composite with polypyrrole (PPy) via co-precipitation polymerization to form PPy/Fe3O4/SiO2 for the removal of Congo red dye (CR) and hexavalent chromium Cr(VI) ions from water. The nanocomposite was characterized using various techniques including X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscope (SEM), vibration sample magnetometer, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The results confirm the successful fabrication of the nanocomposite in the size of nanometers. The effect of different conditions such as the contact time, adsorbent dosage, solution pH, and initial concentration on the adsorption process was investigated. The adsorption isotherm suggested monolayer adsorption of both contaminants over the PPy/Fe3O4/SiO2 nanocomposite following a Langmuir isotherm, with maximum adsorption of 361 and 298 mg.g−1 for CR dye and Cr(VI), respectively. Furthermore, the effect of water type on the adsorption process was examined, indicating the applicability of the PPy/Fe3O4/SiO2 nanocomposite for real sample treatment. Interestingly, the reusability of the nanocomposite for the removal of the studied contaminants was investigated with good results even after six successive cycles. All results make this nanocomposite a promising material for water treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Multifunctional Polymer-Matrix Composites)
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20 pages, 6287 KiB  
Article
Synthesis of Optically Tunable and Thermally Stable PMMA–PVA/CuO NPs Hybrid Nanocomposite Thin Films
by Ahmad M. Alsaad, Ahmad A. Ahmad, Issam A. Qattan, Abdul-Raouf El-Ali, Shatha A. Al Fawares and Qais M. Al-Bataineh
Polymers 2021, 13(11), 1715; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13111715 - 24 May 2021
Cited by 26 | Viewed by 2667
Abstract
We report the synthesis and comprehensive characterization of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)/polyvinylalcohol (PVA) polymeric blend doped with different concentrations of Copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles (NPs). The PMMA–PVA/CuO nanocomposite hybrid thin films containing wt.% = 0%, 2%, 4%, 8%, and 16% of CuO NPs are deposited [...] Read more.
We report the synthesis and comprehensive characterization of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)/polyvinylalcohol (PVA) polymeric blend doped with different concentrations of Copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles (NPs). The PMMA–PVA/CuO nanocomposite hybrid thin films containing wt.% = 0%, 2%, 4%, 8%, and 16% of CuO NPs are deposited on glass substrates via dip-coating technique. Key optical parameters are measured, analyzed, and interpreted. Tauc, Urbach, Spitzer–Fan, and Drude models are employed to calculate the optical bandgap energy (Eg) and the optoelectronic parameters of PMMA–PVA/CuO nanocomposites. The refractive index and Eg of undoped PMMA–PVA are found to be (1.5–1.85) and 4.101 eV, respectively. Incorporation of specific concentrations of CuO NPs into PMMA–PVA blend leads to a considerable decrease in Eg and to an increase of the refractive index. Moreover, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) transmittance spectra are measured and analyzed for undoped and doped polymeric thin films to pinpoint the major vibrational modes in the spectral range (500 and 4000 cm−1) as well as to elucidate the nature of chemical network bonding. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) is conducted under appropriate conditions to ensure the thermal stability of thin films. Doped polymeric thin films are found to be thermally stable below 105 °C. Therefore, controlled tuning of optoelectronic and thermal properties of doped polymeric thin films by introducing an appropriate concentration of inorganic fillers leads to a smart design of scaled multifunctional devices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Multifunctional Polymer-Matrix Composites)
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19 pages, 10971 KiB  
Article
Impact of PP Impurities on ABS Tensile Properties: Computational Mechanical Modelling Aspects
by Charles Signoret, Anne-Sophie Caro-Bretelle, José-Marie Lopez-Cuesta, Patrick Ienny and Didier Perrin
Polymers 2021, 13(10), 1647; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13101647 - 19 May 2021
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2331
Abstract
Recycling of plastics is hindered by their important variety and strong incompatibility. However, sorting technologies bear costs and meet limits. Very high purities (<2 wt%) are difficult to reach. Yet, such rates may be detrimental to functional properties. In this work, an ABS [...] Read more.
Recycling of plastics is hindered by their important variety and strong incompatibility. However, sorting technologies bear costs and meet limits. Very high purities (<2 wt%) are difficult to reach. Yet, such rates may be detrimental to functional properties. In this work, an ABS matrix (major plastic in Waste of Electrical and Electronic Equipments) was filled with 4 wt% of PP to mimic impurities in ABS after recycling. PP-g-MA was introduced in the blend to improve the compatibility. A finite element model was developed from the mechanical behavior of each component. ABS and PP were individually characterized from tensile tests instrumented with photomechanics and their behaviors were modelled through a set of numerical parameters (elasto-visco-plasticity with a Gurson’s criterion behavior). Comparison between the determinist model results and the experimental data (strength, volumetric variation) shows that this type of modelling could be a predictive tool in order to anticipate composite mechanical properties and to understand micromechanisms of deformation (damage, cavitation). The main result is that PP introduced at 4 wt% into ABS does not alter the static mechanical properties despite polymers incompatibility. The addition of PP-g-MA modifies the local properties and possibly conduct to a premature breakage of the polymer blend. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Multifunctional Polymer-Matrix Composites)
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17 pages, 4157 KiB  
Article
High Performance PA 6/Cellulose Nanocomposites in the Interest of Industrial Scale Melt Processing
by Pruthvi K. Sridhara and Fabiola Vilaseca
Polymers 2021, 13(9), 1495; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13091495 - 06 May 2021
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2557
Abstract
On an industrial scale, it is a challenge to achieve cellulose based nanocomposites due to dispersion issues and high process temperatures sensitivity. The current study describes methods to develop mechanically strong and thermally stable polyamide 6 (PA 6) and cellulose nanofibers (CNF) composites [...] Read more.
On an industrial scale, it is a challenge to achieve cellulose based nanocomposites due to dispersion issues and high process temperatures sensitivity. The current study describes methods to develop mechanically strong and thermally stable polyamide 6 (PA 6) and cellulose nanofibers (CNF) composites capable of tolerating high processing temperatures. With PA 6 being a very technical polymer matrix to be reinforced with CNF, good dispersion can be achieved with a high speed kinetic mixer and also shield the CNF from excess thermal degradation by implementing extremely short processing time. This paper presents an industrially feasible method to produce PA 6/CNF nanocomposites with high CNF composition processed by a high speed kinetic mixer (GELIMAT®) followed by compression molding to obtain a homogenous and thermally stable nanocomposites aimed at high performance applications. PA 6 was reinforced with three different wt % formulations (5, 15 and 25 wt %) of cellulose nanofibers. The resulting nanocomposites exhibited significant increase in Young’s modulus and ultimate strength with CNF content, owing to the effective melt processing and the surface charge density of the CNF, which necessitated the dispersion. The thermal stability and polymer crystallinity with respect to CNF composition for the PA 6/CNF nanocomposites were examined by TGA and DSC analysis. Rheology studies indicated that viscosity of the composites increased with increase in CNF composition. Overall, this work demonstrates industrially viable manufacturing processes to fabricate high performance PA 6/CNF nanocomposites. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Multifunctional Polymer-Matrix Composites)
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15 pages, 21024 KiB  
Article
Design and Evaluation of Hybrid Composite Plates for Ballistic Protection: Experimental and Numerical Investigations
by Farah Alkhatib, Elsadig Mahdi and Aamir Dean
Polymers 2021, 13(9), 1450; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13091450 - 30 Apr 2021
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 3892
Abstract
In this paper, hybrid composite plates for ballistic protection were investigated experimentally and numerically, with a target to reduce the weight of currently used body armor inserts and, at the same time, satisfy the requirements of the National Institute of Justice’s (NIJ) ballistic [...] Read more.
In this paper, hybrid composite plates for ballistic protection were investigated experimentally and numerically, with a target to reduce the weight of currently used body armor inserts and, at the same time, satisfy the requirements of the National Institute of Justice’s (NIJ) ballistic protection standards. The current study has three phases to improve the ballistic plate’s energy absorption capability. The first phase is devoted to studying the effect of the material types, including three different fibers: carbon fiber, date palm fiber, and Kevlar fiber. The second phase is dedicated to studying the effect of hybridization within layers. The two previous phases’ results were analyzed to optimize the material based on the hybrid composite ballistic plate’s maximum energy absorption capability. The commercial finite element software package LS-DYNA was employed for numerical modeling and simulation. The hybrid composite ballistic plate could absorb more impact energy than the non-hybrid Kevlar plate with the same area density from the numerical simulation results. This study provides lighter-weight ballistic inserts with a high protection level, making movement easier for the wearer. The numerical results were verified by comparing results of a plate made of 40 layers of Kevlar with an actual ballistic test. The results indicated that the simulation results were conservative compared to the ballistic test. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Multifunctional Polymer-Matrix Composites)
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22 pages, 5275 KiB  
Article
Structure Design of GFRP Composite Leaf Spring: An Experimental and Finite Element Analysis
by Linlin Ma, Jingwu He, Yizhuo Gu, Zuoguang Zhang, Zechuan Yu, Ao Zhou, Lik-ho Tam and Chao Wu
Polymers 2021, 13(8), 1193; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13081193 - 07 Apr 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3514
Abstract
Due to the high load-bearing capacity and light weight, composite leaf spring with variable width and variable thickness has been increasingly used in the automobile industry to replace the conventional steel leaf spring with a heavy weight. The optimum structural design of composite [...] Read more.
Due to the high load-bearing capacity and light weight, composite leaf spring with variable width and variable thickness has been increasingly used in the automobile industry to replace the conventional steel leaf spring with a heavy weight. The optimum structural design of composite leaf spring is particularly favorable for the weight reduction. In this study, an effective algorithm is developed for structural optimization of composite leaf spring. The mechanical performance of composite leaf spring with designed dimensions is characterized using a combined experimental and computational approach. Specifically, the composite leaf spring with variable width and variable thickness was prepared using the filament winding process, and the three-dimensional finite element (FE) model of the designed composite leaf spring is developed. The experimental sample and FE model of composite leaf spring are tested under the three-point bending method. From experimental and simulation results, it is shown that the bending stiffness of the designed leaf spring meets the design requirement in the automotive industry, while the results of stress calculation along all directions meet the requirements of material strength requirement. The developed algorithm contributes to the design method for optimizing the stiffness and strength performance of the composite leaf spring. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Multifunctional Polymer-Matrix Composites)
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9 pages, 2045 KiB  
Communication
Production of Fuel from Plastic Waste: A Feasible Business
by Irene Fahim, Omar Mohsen and Dina ElKayaly
Polymers 2021, 13(6), 915; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/polym13060915 - 16 Mar 2021
Cited by 34 | Viewed by 6268
Abstract
This paper aims to conduct a feasibility study of producing fuel from plastic waste. It is a suggested approach to deal with the huge production of synthetic plastic around the world, so as to avoid its accumulation in landfills and the depletion of [...] Read more.
This paper aims to conduct a feasibility study of producing fuel from plastic waste. It is a suggested approach to deal with the huge production of synthetic plastic around the world, so as to avoid its accumulation in landfills and the depletion of resources. Several types of research have addressed the conversion of plastic waste into energy, and in this study the authors focused on using pyrolysis to convert plastic to liquid oil. Accordingly, the volume of the waste was reduced significantly, and the produced liquid oil had a high calorific value in comparison to fossil fuel. The authors managed to develop a profitable business model for a facility producing fuel from plastic waste in Egypt. This project could be a very lucrative business opportunity for investors or venture capitalists interested in investing in green economy. A Business Model Canvas was used as a tool to identify how the different components of the business relate to each other. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Multifunctional Polymer-Matrix Composites)
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